21 DIY Graduation Hairstyles

Graduation day deserves a hairstyle that’s camera-ready, comfortable beneath a cap, and simple to recreate at home. DIY Graduation Hairstyles mix polished updos, braided crowns, and soft waves to hold through photos, hugs, and long ceremonies while reflecting personal style and finishing touches.
Remember juggling last-minute pins and a cap that won’t sit right?

These DIY Graduation Hairstyles offer quick fixes, secure holds, and small details that make the look feel practiced and memorable.

Braided Crown With Low Messy Bun

This braided crown with a low messy bun feels effortless yet elegant — ideal for graduation when photos and a mortarboard are on the agenda. The crown braid frames the face and keeps hair off the forehead while the relaxed bun sits low enough for a cap to rest comfortably. Strands are pulled loose for softness, creating a romantic finish that still reads polished in pictures. This style suits medium to long hair and blends structure with lived-in texture for an approachable, graduation-ready look.

Styling Tips

• Braid two small sections from the front and pin across the crown.
• Tease the bun lightly for fullness, then tug pieces for a relaxed feel.
• Set with a flexible-hold spray to keep the braid neat without stiffness.

Sleek Low Bun With Side Part

The sleek low bun with a deep side part is a clean, camera-flattering choice for graduation ceremonies and formal photos. Hair is smoothed back for shine and gathered low at the nape to avoid interfering with a cap. The side part adds a timeless edge and helps frame one side of the face for flattering angles in portraits. This look reads chic with minimal accessories and holds up through long events, giving a refined silhouette that complements gowns and tassels without feeling overdone.

Styling Tips

• Smooth hair with a lightweight serum and a fine-tooth comb for shine.
• Secure the bun with pins tucked close to the head for a neat finish.
• Finish with a light hold hairspray to tame flyaways without losing movement.

Twisted Half-Up Knot With Soft Curls

This twisted half-up knot pairs casual curls with a pulled-back silhouette that’s perfect for graduation photos. The top section is twisted into a small knot, securing hair away from the face while leaving the rest in soft, romantic waves. The balance between structure and bounce makes the style feel youthful and photogenic under a cap. It works well on medium lengths and can be dressed up with a small pin or ribbon. The result is effortless charm that stays comfortable through handshakes and family pictures.

Styling Tips

• Create loose curls with a medium barrel iron, then finger-comb for softness.
• Twist two front sections and knot them at the crown, securing with pins.
• Add a clear elastic or decorative pin to keep the knot steady all day.

Ribbon-Tied Low Ponytail With Volume And Texture

A ribbon-tied low ponytail strikes a playful yet polished note for graduation. Hair is gathered low with a touch of volume at the crown, then wrapped with a satin ribbon to add movement and personality. The ribbon peeks from under the mortarboard for a subtle decorative touch in photos. This style is beginner-friendly and keeps hair tidy during the ceremony while remaining soft enough for portraits. It suits medium to long hair and can be adapted with curls, waves, or sleek strands depending on the desired finish.

Styling Tips

• Backcomb the crown gently for lift before smoothing the top layer.
• Tie a narrow satin ribbon around the ponytail knot and secure with a discreet pin.
• If needed, curl the ponytail ends for added texture and bounce.

Fishtail Braid Draped Over One Shoulder

The fishtail braid draped over one shoulder creates a romantic, effortless statement that photographs beautifully. This braid looks intricate but is surprisingly simple once the technique is learned; pulled-apart pieces give a soft, lived-in texture that reads dreamy in close-ups. Wearing it over one shoulder ensures the cap still sits comfortably and keeps the profile clean for side shots. It works best on medium to long hair lengths and can be finished with a ribbon, small flowers, or left bare for a modern vibe.

Styling Tips

• Start with lightly textured hair to help the fishtail grip and hold shape.
• Pancake the braid by gently pulling outer loops for width and softness.
• Secure the end with a clear elastic and hide it with a small accessory if desired.

Classic Chignon With Soft Face-Framing Touches

The classic chignon is a timeless graduation pick that reads elegant and refined in photos. This version keeps a few soft face-framing pieces loose to soften the look and prevent a too-strict silhouette under the cap. The chignon sits low, creating a sleek base for the mortarboard and staying comfortable throughout the event. It pairs beautifully with minimalist jewelry and suits straight or slightly textured hair. The overall effect is polished without feeling stiff, offering an understated finish that highlights the gown and accessories.

Styling Tips

• Smooth hair with a lightweight cream to reduce frizz before forming the chignon.
• Leave two slim face-framing strands and curl them softly for movement.
• Pin the chignon securely with U-pins and mist lightly for hold.

Double Dutch Braids Pulled Into Low Bun

Double Dutch braids pulled into a low bun are playful, practical, and keep hair secure for long ceremonies. The braids add texture and interest at the crown, while the bun gives a neat base that fits under a cap without bulk. This style is excellent for windy outdoor graduations or active celebrations after the ceremony, since everything stays in place. It’s a youthful look that still photographs well, combining sporty details with a clean finish that flatters a variety of gown necklines.

Styling Tips

• Braid tightly at the scalp for clean Dutch braids that hold all day.
• Wrap the braid ends into a low bun and pin them securely with bobby pins.
• Apply a smoothing balm to the hairline to tame flyaways for a neat finish.

Loose Waves With Decorative Pins For Glam

Loose waves with decorative pins strike a balance between casual and glam, perfect for graduates who want softness with a little sparkle. Waves are brushed out for a glossy, flowing finish while jeweled or pearl pins are strategically placed to catch light in photos. The style keeps hair down while remaining controlled enough to tuck a cap on without flattening the look too much. It’s ideal for medium to long hair and works beautifully with off-the-shoulder or strapless gowns for an elevated, feminine effect.

Styling Tips

• Create loose waves with a large barrel iron, then comb through for smoothness.
• Place decorative pins asymmetrically for visual interest without overpowering the style.
• Use a lightweight shine spray to enhance gloss without weighing the waves down.

Vintage Finger Waves For Short Hair Glam

Vintage finger waves give short hair a red-carpet feel that’s surprisingly wearable for graduation. This polished style hugs the head in soft S-shaped waves and creates a sleek, retro silhouette that frames the face beautifully. Because of its low profile, it works particularly well with hats and caps while still feeling dressed up. Pair with bold lip color or classic eyeliner for extra impact in photos. Finger waves are a statement choice that turns short hair into a timeless, photograph-ready look.

Styling Tips

• Work with damp hair, using a strong-hold gel and a fine-tooth comb to sculpt the waves.
• Use clips while the gel sets to define the curves and keep them in place.
• Seal the style with a non-sticky hairspray for long-lasting hold and shine.

High Top Knot With Statement Barrettes

The high top knot is modern and fun, and adding statement barrettes turns it into a graduation-ready look. The knot sits high enough to add height without clashing with the cap, and decorative pins or barrettes along the hairline bring personality to photos. This style is quick to build and keeps hair off the neck during warm ceremonies. It pairs well with bold earrings or a sleek makeup look, creating a confident silhouette that reads youthful and intentional in group shots and solo portraits.

Styling Tips

• Smooth hair into a high ponytail, twist it loosely, and wrap into a knot for texture.
• Add one or two statement barrettes along the hairline for visual impact.
• Use strong pins to anchor the knot so it stays comfortable under a cap.

Boho Halo Braid Dotted With Fresh Flowers

A boho halo braid decorated with small fresh flowers brings a whimsical, romantic feel to graduation day. The crown-style braid wraps around the head, keeping hair secure and creating a beautiful frame for the face. Tiny blooms tucked into the braid add a soft, organic touch that looks lovely in outdoor photos. This style works well for those wanting floral accents without a full flower crown. It keeps the hair controlled under a cap while still offering a soft, celebratory vibe.

Styling Tips

• Braid around the hairline starting from one temple to the other for an even halo.
• Tuck small, wired flowers into the braid so they stay secure during the event.
• Use a flexible-hold spray to keep the braid soft and natural-looking.

Polished Low Pony With Satin Ribbon Bow

The polished low pony with a satin ribbon bow is classic and picture-friendly, offering a neat silhouette that still feels feminine. Hair is smoothed back into a low ponytail, then a satin ribbon is tied into a bow around the base for a refined finish. The bow shows subtly beneath the cap and creates a charming detail in photos. This look works on straight or gently waved hair and pairs nicely with minimal jewelry for a cohesive, timeless graduation ensemble.

Styling Tips

• Straighten or smooth hair before gathering into a low pony to reduce frizz.
• Tie a satin ribbon around the elastic and secure the knot with a discreet pin.
• Keep the bow proportionate to hair thickness so it complements rather than overwhelms.

Textured Lob Styled With Sparkling Clip

The textured lob styled with a sparkling clip is ideal for medium-length hair that wants a dash of glamour without an updo. Soft texture and subtle waves give the lob movement while a decorative clip placed to one side lifts the look for photos. Because the style stays low-profile, it works well with caps and keeps the neck comfortable during warm ceremonies. The clip adds a focal point in portraits and can be swapped to match gown color or school accents for a coordinated touch.

Styling Tips

• Create subtle waves with a flat iron, then tousle for texture and volume.
• Place a sparkling clip above one ear to draw attention to the face.
• Apply a texturizing spray at the roots for lift that lasts through the day.

Side-Swept Curls Pinned To One Side

Side-swept curls pinned to one side create a glamorous, red-carpet feel that still reads practical for graduation. Hair is curled into soft, voluminous waves and then pinned to one shoulder to showcase profile shots and necklace details. This arrangement keeps hair from interfering with a cap at the back while letting curls shine in portraits. The style pairs well with statement earrings and can be secured with decorative pins that match the gown or school colors for a cohesive look.

Styling Tips

• Create uniform curls with a medium barrel and brush them lightly for soft waves.
• Gather curls to one side and anchor with bobby pins hidden beneath the hair.
• Add a decorative pin or clip at the root of the pinned section for stability and sparkle.

Waterfall Braid Accented With Tiny Pearls

The waterfall braid accented with tiny pearls is delicate and feminine — a lovely choice for garden or outdoor ceremonies. The cascading braid lets strands fall through so movement remains natural, while pearl pins nestled along the braid add gentle sparkle for photos. Because the braid doesn’t fully constrain the hair, it feels light and comfortable under a cap. This style suits medium to long hair and is a subtle way to introduce embellishment without overwhelming the overall look.

Styling Tips

• Create a waterfall braid along one side to allow soft pieces to cascade through.
• Secure tiny pearl pins intermittently along the braid for an elegant shimmer.
• Finish with a light-hold spray that keeps pearls in place and maintains movement.

Twisted Rope Braid Half-Up With Volume

This twisted rope braid half-up style combines a hint of structure with voluminous flair, making it great for graduation portraits. Two rope braids are twisted from each side and meet at the back, creating a secure half-up knot while leaving the rest of the hair free. Gentle teasing at the crown adds lift so the cap sits neatly without flattening the shape. The look reads modern and soft, and allows accessories like pins or a small comb at the back for a refined finish.

Styling Tips

• Create two rope braids by twisting small sections tightly, then join them in the back.
• Backcomb slightly at the crown before securing for natural lift.
• Add a decorative comb or pin where the braids meet for extra hold and style.

Sleek Center-Part Ponytail With Mirror Shine

The sleek center-part ponytail with mirror shine is modern and minimalist, ideal for a clean graduation look that emphasizes bone structure and gown lines. Hair is smoothed into a low or mid ponytail with a precise center part for symmetry. A glossing product gives that mirror-like finish so hair looks polished in photos. This style keeps everything neat beneath a cap and directs attention to the face and neckline for portraits. It’s simple, strong, and very camera-friendly for a confident finish.

Styling Tips

• Create a sharp center part using a rat-tail comb for symmetry.
• Apply a shine serum from mid-shaft to ends to achieve reflective gloss.
• Secure the ponytail tightly and wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it.

Braided Ponytail Wrapped With Satin Ribbon

The braided ponytail wrapped with a satin ribbon merges practical hold with charming detail for graduation day. Hair is braided into a long ponytail and a ribbon is wrapped around the base or woven through the braid to introduce color and texture. This keeps the style tidy for the ceremony and makes for playful movement in photos. It pairs well with simple gowns and can be tailored to match school hues. The look is comfortable under a cap while offering a festive, personalized accent.

Styling Tips

• Braid the ponytail tightly for a defined look that holds through the day.
• Wrap a thin satin ribbon around the base or weave it through the braid for detail.
• Secure the ribbon ends discreetly so they don’t come loose during the ceremony.

Voluminous Half-Up Bouffant With Decorative Clips

The voluminous half-up bouffant gives classic glamour with a modern twist — perfect for caps that rest at the crown. The top section is teased to create height and then smoothed into a half-up style, while decorative clips secure the look and add personality. The lower half remains soft with waves or curls for balance. This style adds presence in photos and keeps hair off the face for ceremony moments while still feeling girlish and chic in overall presentation.

Styling Tips

• Backcomb the crown section for bouffant height, then smooth the top layer gently.
• Secure the half-up with pins, then add decorative clips for a polished accent.
• Use a medium-hold spray to preserve volume without crunchiness.

Messy Bun Softened With Wispy Baby Hairs

The messy bun softened with wispy baby hairs offers relaxed charm with a touch of intentional styling for graduation photos. The bun is casually arranged to look effortless, while delicate baby hairs and small face-framing strands are styled to soften the overall shape. This makes the look flattering in close-ups and keeps the silhouette low-profile for caps. It’s comfortable, breathable for long events, and pairs nicely with natural makeup for a pretty, approachable graduate vibe that feels like the hair version of an easy smile.

Styling Tips

• Create a loose bun and leave small strands around the face before pinning.
• Style baby hairs with a tiny bit of gel and a toothbrush or spoolie for control.
• Use pins to anchor the bun but pull pieces free for softness and texture.

Low Knot Adorned With Pearl Hair Pins

The low knot adorned with pearl hair pins is understated and elegant, ideal for graduates who prefer minimal ornamentation with a hint of luxury. The knot sits at the nape for comfort with a cap, and pearl pins are tucked into the twist to catch light in photos without overpowering the look. This style is versatile for straight or slightly textured hair and reads classic in portraits. The pinned pearls add an heirloom feel that complements necklaces and earrings for a cohesive graduation presentation.

Styling Tips

• Create a tidy low knot and pin it close to the nape for cap compatibility.
• Insert pearl pins along the knot at varied angles for natural sparkle.
• Seal with a light mist to keep pins secure and maintain a soft finish.

Last Updated : 17 December, 2025

Sandeep Bhandari

Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.